Seems Like Old Times Synopsis: Wrongfully accused of a bank robbery, a writer seeks the help of his ex-wife, who is now married to the soon-to-be Attorney General. of California.
When two bank robbers kidnap Nick and force him to commit a robbery, he seeks refuge at the home of his ex-wife, Glenda, hoping sheâll help him clear his name. The catch? Glendaâs new husband, Ira, is a district attorney, and the police are actively searching for Nick after his face appeared on the bankâs security footage. Glenda is caught in a difficult position, trying to convince Nick to surrender while also keeping his whereabouts hidden from Ira.
Seems Like Old Times, written by Neil Simon, is a clear homage to the screwball comedies of the 30s and 40s. For the most part, I think he succeeded. Goldie Hawn is perfect as Glenda, the public defense attorney stuck between her immature, unpredictable ex-husband and her sophisticated, wealthy new one. She has a lucent presence on screen that is hard to deny, and she was my favorite part of this movie.
“I hope they shoot you! I hope they shoot you in my kitchen! And when they drag your dead body out of here, I hope they shoot you again!” – Glenda
Chevy Chase was, well, Chevy Chase. Great comedic timing, pratfalls included. He and Hawn are having fun together, and no matter how ridiculous the scenarios get, I still find myself laughing. I haven’t seen Charles Grodin in much, but I thought he did a fine job going toe-to-toe with Hawn and Chase, even if he didn’t have a particularly flashy role.
Is it okay to mention how much I loved all the dogs Glenda and Ira owned? Glenda was clearly a character who loved helping people and animals, and the dogs provided some of the best gags just by being present.
It took me a while to sit down and write down my thoughts on Seems Like Old Times because, simply put, I liked it. It wasn’t the best film I’ve ever seen, but it wasn’t the worst either. I think the movie works because of its cast, and there’s honestly not much here to dissect. It would work well as a play (which makes sense as Simon is also a playwright).
I thought Seems Like Old Times was a play at first, based on how the movie was set up and the simplicity of the sets and situations.
Seems Like Old Times is a slapstick comedy with minor romance elements. The focus seems to be more on the laughs than the actual characters, so their development is thin. Even so, this movie has a lot to like, especially if you want something light and silly to watch.
“Whose dog is this?”– Judge Channing
“They’re mine, Your Honor.” – Ira
“The dogs work for you, too?” – Judge Channing
“Only two of them. The other four are visiting.” – Ira
Watched: 08/17/2021
Notable Song: The High and the Mighty by Chevy Chase
